Sarth Dashvaikalik Sutram - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sarth Dashvaikalik Sutram" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sarth Dashvaikalik Sutram (सार्थ दशवकालिक सूत्रम्) Author/Editor: Muni Jayanand Vijayji (मुनि जयानंद विजय) Publisher: Shri Guru Ramchandra Prakashan Samiti, Bhinmal (श्री गुरु रामचन्द्र प्रकाशन समिति, भीनमाल)

Overview:

The "Sarth Dashvaikalik Sutram" is a foundational Jain scripture that focuses on the conduct and ethics of ascetics (monks and nuns). The title "Dashvaikalik" itself suggests "ten chapters" or "ten subjects" that are of utmost importance. This summary is based on the provided Hindi translation and commentary (Sarth), which includes Sanskrit shlokas with Hindi explanations.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is presented as a guide for mendicants, detailing the principles and practices essential for spiritual progress and adherence to the Jain path. The summary is structured around the ten chapters (adhyayana) and two supplementary sections (chulikas) mentioned in the introduction.

Introduction and Authoritative Basis:

The text is considered a valid Agam (scripture) in Jainism, among 45 other recognized texts.
It is attributed to Shri Shyyambhavaswami, the fourth successor in the lineage of Lord Mahavir Swami and a disciple of Yugapradhanacharya Shri Prabhaswami. This lineage lends significant authority to the text.
The introduction mentions that the Sutra was composed by Shri Shyyambhavaswami for his young disciple, Manak, who attained liberation shortly after studying it, highlighting the Sutra's efficacy.
The commentary acknowledges the contributions of Acharya Shri Vidyachandra Surishwarji and Muniraj Shri Ramchandra Vijayji, emphasizing a collaborative effort in bringing this edition to light.

Content of the Ten Chapters (Adhyayana):

Chapter 1: Drum-pushpika (द्रुमपुष्पिका - Tree Flower): Focuses on the glory of Dharma and the essence of madhukari vritti (the practice of collecting alms from multiple households in a single day, without causing any burden). It emphasizes non-violence, restraint, and austerity as the highest virtues, worthy of reverence even by celestial beings. It uses the analogy of a bee collecting nectar from flowers without harming them to illustrate the conduct of an ascetic.
Chapter 2: Shraman-purvaka (श्रमणपूर्वक - Preceding Asceticism): This chapter deals with the importance of steadfastness in asceticism and the renunciation of worldly pleasures, exemplified by the story of King Renemi and Rajimati. It stresses that one who is not detached from sensual desires cannot truly follow the path of asceticism. It defines true renunciation and advises on controlling the mind and overcoming desires.
Chapter 3: Kshullaka-achar (क्षुल्लकाचार - Minor Conduct): This chapter outlines fifty-two minor transgressions (anachar) that ascetics should avoid. It details various forbidden actions, from taking food meant for others (audeshik) to accepting gifts from royalty, engaging in certain bathing practices, using perfumes, playing games, and consuming specific types of food (like uncooked roots, fruits, and certain salts). It emphasizes the importance of living simply and avoiding attachment to any form of comfort or indulgence.
Chapter 4: Shadjivanikaya (षड्जीवनिकाय - Six Categories of Living Beings): This chapter is crucial for understanding Jain ethics, as it details the six categories of living beings (earth-bodied, water-bodied, fire-bodied, air-bodied, plant-bodied, and mobile beings) and the utmost importance of protecting them (Jayanā). It explains the subtle existence of life in all these forms and the profound commitment ascetics must have to prevent any harm. This chapter includes detailed vows (pratigya) to avoid causing harm to these beings.
Chapter 5: Pind-aishana (पिण्डैषणा - Alms-Seeking): This is a highly practical chapter focusing on the principles of pure alms-seeking (aishana samiti). It provides detailed guidelines on how ascetics should go for alms, what to observe on the path (avoiding obstacles, living beings), how to receive alms (observing purity, avoiding defects), what to accept and what to refuse, and the importance of proper conduct within the household. It emphasizes mindfulness and adherence to rules to avoid even the slightest transgression.
Chapter 6: Mahachar Katha (महाचार कथा - Great Conduct Narrative): This chapter, also referred to as "Dharmarth Kama Adhyayan," discusses the ideal conduct of an ascetic. It contrasts the fruits of disciplined adherence to Dharma (spiritual duty) with the consequences of straying from the path. It highlights the importance of knowledge, austerity, and self-control, and the detrimental effects of pride, anger, greed, and attachment. It offers a narrative on the path to liberation.
Chapter 7: Suvakya Shuddhi (सुवाक्यशुद्धि - Purity of Speech): This chapter emphasizes the critical importance of pure and truthful speech. It details the types of speech to be avoided (falsehood, harsh words, gossip, slander, divisive speech) and the principles of speaking truthfully, constructively, and agreeably. It stresses that speech should be well-considered, beneficial, and free from negativity.
Chapter 8: Achar Pranidhi (आचारप्रणिधि - Resolve/Commitment to Conduct): This chapter delves deeper into the resolve and commitment required for adhering to the code of conduct. It reinforces the principles of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession, not just externally but also in thought and intention. It highlights the importance of self-discipline and control over the senses and mind.
Chapter 9: Vinay Samadhi (विनयसमाधि - Tranquility through Humility/Respect): This chapter underscores the paramount importance of Vinaya (humility, respect, and reverence) towards seniors, scriptures, and the teachings. It explains that true tranquility (Samadhi) is achieved through humility, respect for knowledge (Shrut Samadhi), austerity (Tapa Samadhi), and right conduct (Achar Samadhi). It stresses that disrespect towards the Guru can lead to downfall and hinder spiritual progress.
Chapter 10: Sa Bhikshu (सभिक्षु - He is a Monk): This chapter describes the qualities and conduct of an ideal monk (Bhikshu). It outlines the characteristics of a true mendicant, emphasizing detachment, contentment, self-control, non-violence, purity of life, and constant dedication to spiritual practices. It distinguishes between true ascetics and those who merely wear the outward appearance.

Two Supplementary Sections (Chulikas):

First Chulika: This section describes the varied nature of the world and the uniqueness of the ascetic's path. It aims to strengthen the resolve of the ascetic by highlighting the transient and often unpleasant nature of worldly existence, contrasting it with the purity and purpose of the ascetic life.
Second Chulika: This section focuses on the daily routine and conduct of an ascetic during their wandering (Vihar). It provides guidance on maintaining equanimity, proper behavior, and spiritual discipline throughout their journey, emphasizing that such conduct leads to the ultimate goal.

Overall Significance:

"Sarth Dashvaikalik Sutram" is a vital text for understanding the practical application of Jain ethical principles in the life of an ascetic. It is a comprehensive guide that covers various aspects of conduct, from minute details of alms-seeking to the broader principles of non-violence and self-control. The commentary (Sarth) makes these profound teachings accessible and applicable for contemporary understanding. The text's emphasis on detachment, control over senses and mind, and unwavering commitment to the spiritual path makes it a cornerstone for spiritual aspirants in Jainism.